Laos travel tips
Laos travel tips: Landlocked Laos, known for lush landscapes and cultural heritage, boasts ancient temples, the Mekong River, and warm hospitality.
Provinces 🌎
Laos travel tips. Here is a list of all the provinces of the Laos.
Attapeu
Bokeo
Bolikhamxay
Champasak
Houaphanh
Khammouane
Luang Namtha
Luang Prabang
Oudomxay
Phongsaly
Salavan
Savannakhet
Sekong
Vientiane Province
Vientiane Capital
Xieng Khouang
Xaisomboun
Xekong
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Vientiane
Flag Codes:
ISO alpha-2 LA,
ISO alpha-3 LAO
Currency
Badge | Lao Kip
CODE | LAK
NUMBER | 418
SYMBOL | ₭
FRACTION | att
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +856
SIM Card
Coverage | 3G / 4G / 5G |
Mobile Networks | ETL Mobile | LaoTel Mobile | Tplus Mobile | Unitel Mobile |
Location
Laos is a country located in Southeast Asia, bordering China to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar (Burma) to the northwest. The capital of Laos is Vientiane and the country is divided into 17 provinces. Laos is a landlocked country, meaning it has no access to the sea. Its geographical location is between latitudes 14°N and 23°N and longitudes 100°E and 108°E.
Currency
The official currency of Laos is the Lao Kip (LAK). 1 kip is subdivided into 100 att. The Lao kip is issued in banknotes of denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000 and 500,000 kips.
Languages
Several languages are spoken in Laos, the official and most spoken language being Lao, also known as Laotian. Lao is a Tai-Kadai language and is used by the Lao ethnic majority, which represents around 55% of the population.
In addition to Lao, many other minority languages are spoken in Laos, including Hmong, Khmu, Phu Tai, Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese, among others. Some of these minority languages have official status in areas where they are spoken by a significant number of people, and are used in education and public administration in those regions. However, Lao remains the predominant language throughout the country.
Climate 🌡
Laos has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it experiences a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season runs from May to October and the dry season runs from November to April.
During the rainy season, the climate is hot and humid, with frequent and often heavy rain. Average temperatures during this season range between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius, but it can feel even hotter due to the high humidity.
During the dry season, the climate is cooler and more pleasant, with average temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius. The air becomes drier and rains become less frequent, making it a popular time to visit Laos.
However, it is important to note that the climate can vary depending on the region of Laos. In northern mountainous areas, temperatures may be cooler, while in southern coastal regions, the climate may be warmer and more humid. In general, the best time to visit Laos is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier.
Laos travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to Laos, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Cultural Respect:
Respect local customs, removing shoes before entering homes and temples.
Trekking Adventures:
Explore rural villages and stunning landscapes on trekking adventures.
Mekong River Cruises:
Experience the Mekong River’s beauty with cruises, discovering local life along its banks.
Temple Etiquette:
Dress modestly when visiting temples and follow local etiquette.
Transportation:
Use tuk-tuks, local buses, and songthaews for budget-friendly and authentic transportation. View Guide.
Elephant Sanctuaries:
Choose ethical elephant sanctuaries that prioritize the well-being of these majestic creatures.
Lao New Year (Pi Mai):
Experience the joyous celebrations of Pi Mai, Laos’ traditional New Year.
Enjoy your time in Laos!
The best of the best
Laotian cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh and strong flavors, aromatic herbs and spices.
Laap
A dish of raw or cooked minced meat, mixed with herbs, spices and lime juice.
Tam Mak Hoong
Grated green papaya salad with tomatoes, lemon, chilies, garlic and dried fish.
Khao Soi
A coconut milk curry soup with rice noodles, chicken or beef, chilies and herbs.
Some of the typical Lao foods are:
Mok Pa: fish wrapped in banana leaves and steamed with chilies, garlic and herbs.
Or Lam: A beef or pork stew with vegetables and herbs, served with sticky rice.
Sai Oua: spicy pork sausages with herbs and spices.
Ping Kai: chicken marinated in herbs and spices and grilled.
Sticky Rice: steamed glutinous rice, eaten with your hands and used as an accompaniment to many dishes.
Nam Khao: A fried rice salad with pork, herbs, onion and peanuts.
Khao Jee: a baguette sandwich with pate, roast meat, vegetables and herbs, reflecting the French influence on Laotian cuisine.
In addition, in Laos you can also find Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine dishes due to the influence of its neighboring countries. If you visit Laos, be sure to try these delicious local foods and experience the country’s rich culinary diversity.
Transportation 🚥
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